Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
OFF TO THE RACES
20,000 pack borough streets for 15th annual Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic bike race
WEST CHESTER >> Once again Saturday, this borough proved it is the “wheel deal.”
More than 20,000 people packed the streets of the sundrenched borough for one of the highlights of the West Chester summer - the annual Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic bike race.
Once again, all manner of fun-seekers and serious bike riders descended on the borough for the race, which started with a tricycle fun race before working its way up to the main event.
Sponsored by Benchmark Federal Credit Union, the iconic professional bike races and town-wide festival drew thousands of spectators to the historic town for a day of fun and professional bike racing. Numerous family-focused events drew children of all ages and their parents.
The Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic has become famous for its full-throttle, professional cycling action through downtown West Chester on a challenging .6mile course covering eight city blocks. All while offering plenty of free, family-friendly activities and fun on the surrounding side streets for all to enjoy.
This year the event drew some new sponsors in addition to lead sponsor Benchmark for the event, which started in 2005 as the Iron Hill Twilight Criterium.
MacElree Harvey, a West Chester-based law firm, signed up as sponsor of the all-new Kids’ Zone, which this year featured the Philadelphia Flyers Community Caravan, a family-focused attraction for kids and their parents that included games, activities, giveaways, a giant inflatable hockey rink, and Flyer alumni. Also in 2019, Chester County Hospital has stepped up as a sponsor for the Community Festival that featured a business bazaar, food stands, and booths of all descriptions.
In 2015, a team trike challenge was added, attracting Tolsdorf Oil Lube Express to sign on as the sponsor immediately. Now in its 10th year
of sponsorship of the kids’ race, Dr. Eric Fort, owner of West Chester Dental Arts commented, “We’re beyond excited to sponsor the kids’ race. Our staff looks forward to this event every
year. It’s such an amazing opportunity for us to meet all the new members of the community and reconnect with old friends.”
“Our goal is to create an ideal environment for companies looking to increase their business through the positive exposure an event like this provides,” said Mark Yoder,
President and CEO of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, organizer of the event. “Plus, the bike race has provided a solid economic impact and positive image for the borough of West Chester,” he said.
With a packed town on a gorgeous summer day, they managed to do just that.